Giraldo Named Director of Coaching for Chattanooga FC Academy

CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (MWSN) — Chattanooga Football Club (CFC) has announced the appointment of Sebastian Giraldo as the Director of Coaching for the Chattanooga FC Academy.

Giraldo brings an extensive and varied coaching background to CFC. Most recently, he served as the Elite Technical Director for the Colorado Rapids Youth Soccer Club, overseeing a program that included approximately 13,000 youth players across the Colorado Front Range.

“I feel deeply honored to join such a unique and vibrant club,” said Giraldo. “I have a deep connection to Tennessee and am here because of the people, the community, my family, and the growing love for the most beautiful game. CFC is a dynamic and innovative organization, and I believe we can continue to capture the community’s uniqueness to foster a national leader in player and coach development. I look forward to growing and learning together.”

During his tenure in Colorado, Giraldo also served as the Women’s Head Coach for the Colorado Storm in the USL W League, leading the team to the USL W Mountain Division Championship. Previously, he coached the Colorado Rapids Women in the WPSL, achieving two Rockies Division Championships and being named the WPSL Mountain Conference Coach of the Year in 2022.

“We’re in good hands in terms of youth soccer development,” said Alton Byrd, CEO of Chattanooga FC. “Sebastian’s coaching expertise and passion for the sport are second to none. We’re excited about adding him ahead of the Academy’s 13th season.”

Giraldo’s career also includes roles as Technical Director & Methodology for San Antonio City Soccer Club and Head Coach of Corpus Christi FC in USL League Two. Additionally, he was Technical Director & Methodology at South Texas FC and served as the Tennessee Olympic Development Program Boys Head Coach in 2021.

Giraldo holds a Doctorate in Elite Training of Athletes and a Doctorate of Philosophy in sport management with a specialization in elite athlete development from the University of Texas at Austin. His research focuses on the lifestyles and habits of elite youth soccer athletes.

“Coach Giraldo’s experience with the Colorado Rapids elite program has prepared him to elevate both the boys’ and girls’ programs at Chattanooga FC,” said Sheldon Grizzle, CFC Co-founder and Academy Board Chairman. “He has worked extensively to develop coaches and build educational frameworks for coaches, players, and parents. We couldn’t be more excited to have him join the club.”

In addition to his coaching roles, Giraldo has worked as a consultant across the US Soccer landscape and holds numerous coaching licenses, including a US Soccer Federation National A License, Club Technical Leadership Coach Educator License, and United Soccer Coaches Coach Developer Diploma.

Giraldo is eager to meet with Academy coaches, parents, and families upon his arrival. The CFC Academy fall season officially begins the week of July 29th.

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